hikes in Great Sand Dunes National Park

Hiking is undoubtedly the most popular activity in the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Though the most revered routes are sand dune expeditions, there are more than just sandy tours to indulge. Encompassing lush forestlands, wetlands, glaciated peaks, river valleys, and sand dunes, there is an adventure in the National Park to satisfy hikers of all skill levels and ages. Arguably one of the most scenic locales in the state, we urge you to add a trip to the sand dunes to your Colorado itinerary—you won’t regret it.

10 Wonderful Hiking Routes in the Great Sand Dunes National Park

The Great Sand Dunes National Park offers more than just dune field expeditions—though those are a must when in the area. Whether you are looking for a relaxing nature trail overlooking the desert terrain, or a heart-pumping hike into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Great Sand Dunes National Park delivers. We took it upon ourselves to curate a list of our favorite hikes in the area—check it out:

1. High Dune Trail - The High Dune Trail is an epic adventure up to one of the highest sand dunes in North America. Hike along the wind-sculpted ridges of the Great Dunes. The revered trail leaves no evidence of its popularity as the footprints are erased with the smallest gust of wind. Revel in the sights of the Sangre de Cristo’s glaciated peaks that dominate the skyline.
2. Sand Dunes Loop Trail - Immerse yourself in the continent’s largest sandbox along the Sand Dunes Loop Trail. Hike up the soft terrain up to the ridgeline, exhibiting breathtaking vistas of Colorado’s topographic variety. Meander along the Medano Creek to end your fantastic expedition.
3. Mosca Pass Trail - The Mosca Pass Trail is a welcome variation from the National Park’s typical sand dune expeditions. Wander through mixed pine forests, aspen glades, and alpine tundra up to Mosca Pass. From atop the mountain pass, you will be rewarded with awe-inspiring scenes of dunes below set against the Colorado Rockies.
4. Dunes Overlook Hike - The Dunes Overlook Hike is an awesome family-friendly adventure in the National Park. Ramble along the sandy path, admiring the area’s diverse flora and fauna as you trek to the overlook. From the lookout, you will be granted epic panoramas of the dune hills.
5. Dunes Trail via Pinyon Flats - Explore the Great Sand Dunes and the Medano Creek along the Dunes Trail via Pinyon Flats. This awesome adventure departs from the campground before traversing Medano Creek and climbing up to High Dune. Make sure to pack plenty of water for this trek!
6. Montville Nature Trail - The Montville Nature Trail is a short but scenic adventure along the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Range. Hike through mixed pine forests along Mosca Creek up to a scenic overlook of the dunes. Revel in the sights of the dune fields and admire vibrant wildflowers that adorn the terrain in the spring.
7. High and Star Dune Loop - Ascend the two highest sand dunes in North America along the High and Star Dune Loop. This epic adventure exposes the enormity of the dunes and the beauty of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This challenging trek demands stamina and determination, so make sure you are adequately prepared.
8. Upper Sand Creek Lake Hike - Head up into the high country along the Upper Sand Creek Hike. Whether it be the altitude or picturesque scenery, this adventure will take your breath away. Travel through mixed pine forests and aspen groves before climbing up to the glittering Upper Sand Creek Lake, which is bounded by vertigo-inducing cliffs.
9. Medano Lake Trail - The Medano Lake Trail is another alpine adventure in the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Nestled amongst the glaciated peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range, the glittering lake is postcard-worthy. Though strenuous, the stunning scenery proves well worth the sweat.
10. Wellington Ditch Trail - Wander along the foothills, which reveal awe-inspiring panoramas of the rolling sand dunes along the Wellington Ditch Trail. Admire the area’s vegetation, including junipers, cactus, and ponderosa pines as you hike. This is a great adventure that the whole family can enjoy.

When is the Best Time to Visit the Great Sand Dunes National Park

The beauty of the Great Sand Dune National Park exceeds the stunning scenery and geological marvel. This epic attraction offers epic outdoor activities year-round. The summer is undoubtedly the busiest season for camping in the area. May and June bring crowds as the waters of Medano Creek are surging, providing great tubing adventures. Though you can venture the dunes in July and August, the sand and exposed terrain often prove unbearably warm. The winter months see cool, blustery conditions not ideal for hiking. We prefer to head out in the spring and autumn when the crowds have thinned and the sand is cool.

Other Outdoor Activities in the Great Sand Dunes National Park

There is no denying that the Great Sand Dunes National Park is a hiker’s oasis. Lacking marked routes up the sand dunes, adventurers get to blaze their own trails up the wind-sculpted ridges into the dune field, exposing breathtaking panoramas of Colorado’s topographic diversity.

Seeking another way to experience the continent’s highest dunes? In the summer, grab a tube and float down the Medano Creek, which flows from the snowmelt of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. If you are an adrenaline junkie, consider grabbing a sled or snowboard and sliding down the slopes of the towering dunes! One of our favorite ways to explore the hills is by heading out in the evening, wandering over the cool sand, and stargazing. No matter how you explore the dunes, you will be amazed by this geological wonder.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Great Sand Dunes National Park

Is the Great Sand Dunes National Park worth visiting?

Yes, a detour to the Great Sand Dunes National Park is well worth the visit. Hike up the tallest sand dunes in North America that sit against the dramatic snow-capped summits of the Sangre de Cristo Range.

What is the Great Sand Dunes National Park known for?

The Great Sand Dunes National Park is famous for the tallest sand dunes in North America, which tower over 700ft from the base.

How much does it cost to visit the Great Sand Dunes National Park?

A 7-day private vehicle pass costs $25USD, a 7-day motorcycle pass costs $20USD, and a 12-month annual pass costs $45USD.

Where is the Great Sand Dunes National Park?

The Great Sand Dunes National Park is located near Alamosa in Southern Colorado.

Amazing Adventure Tours in Colorado

Unfortunately, we have yet to curate a Great Sand Dunes National Park adventure package but keep an eye out as we are always working on adding more exciting tours to the collection! Until then, we encourage you to check out our Colorado Adventure Tours or the Rocky Mountain National Park Hiking Tour.

Find Other Epic Hiking Regions in Colorado

• Rocky Mountain National Park
• Indian Peaks Wilderness
• Boulder
• Front Range
• Vail
• San Juan Mountain Range
• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
• Elk Mountains
• Denver
• Aspen